Wade Disrespects the Canadian National Anthem and they Want an Apology

Before the beginning of game 3 of the Raptors Heat playoff series in Miami, Dwyane Wade was caught on camera practicing his shot instead of standing still with his teammates during the rendition of the Canadian National Anthem.

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Some Canadian fans took exception on social media about what they perceive as a lack of respect for their anthem.

I could do without anthems in sports, but what a classless display by Dwyane Wade taking jump shots during "O Canada" yesterday.

Mike Colle, member of the Ontario parliament emailed Adam Silver, NBA commissioner, demanding that Dwyane Wade apologize for his actions.

“As an elected member of Ontario’s Provincial Parliament in Toronto I am most disturbed by Mr. Dwayne (sic) Wade’s total disrespect for our National Anthem shown prior to last night’s game. (May 8). On behalf of many Canadians and my constituents who respect Mr. Wade as an exceptional athlete who love basketball I ask you as NBA Commissioner to formally seek a public apology from Mr. Wade whom I’m sure regrets his mistake.

Thank you for your hoped immediate attention to this urgent matter. I’m certain that similar disrespect for the American Anthem would not be tolerated.”

On Sunday, Wade defended his actions.

“I’m not a disrespectful person,” Wade said. “So if anybody thinks I’m being disrespectful to a country, then they don’t know who Dwyane Wade is.”

Wade added he would adjust his pre-game ritual for the next game of the playoff series.

“If people aren’t here, they see video footage of what they want to see,” he said.

NBA player conduct rules addresses the matter with the following statement:

Players, coaches and trainers are to stand and line up in a dignified posture along the sidelines or on the foul line during the playing of the national anthem.

It is not yet clear if Wade will be disciplined by the league for taking a few extra shots. In 1996, the NBA suspended Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf for one game for refusing to stand during the U.S. national anthem.

Whether the league decides to issue a fine, suspension or no penalty at all, it appears the move has only increased tensions for Canadian fans. Stay tuned tonight for game 4 to see how Wade reacts during the anthem.